Short for Automated Fingerprint Identification System, AFIS is a type of biometric system that uses digital imaging to capture a fingerprint, which then can then be compared to a database of fingerprint records to help determine the identity of an individual. AFIS is a biometrics system commonly used in law enforcement where sets of prints are recorded at crime scenes, digitally captured and then compared to fingerprint records in the AFIS system. Civilian uses of AFIS include fingerprint scanners for security purposes.